Beware of Greeks Bearing Fines

The country often credited with fomenting some of the earliest forms of democracy is taking a turn for the fascist as Greece announced a comprehensive ban on smoking in basically all public places and even in vehicles starting July 1st. But in a nation where 40% of the population is addicted to nicotine and “defying the authorities is a national sport,” it’s easier said than done. So, officials are instituting a heavy 500 euro ($700) penalty on smoke-inhaling lawbreakers caught defying the ban and businesses that repeatedly flaunt the law could “risk losing licenses.” |BBC|